Armstrong, Louis | Armstrong answers a questionnaire on the social role of the musician

Armstrong, Louis

Armstrong answers a questionnaire on the social role of the musician

6 pp., recto only (276 x 215 mm). Mimeographed questionnaire for a doctoral dissertation in Sociology at the University of Illinois, "The Role of the Musician in America." Autograph answers in green ink to 16 (of 19) questions, some at length, a few with a check mark, signed ("Louis Armstrong") in the body; a few light spots, old folds, previously paperclipped and stapled at upper left, small repair or lower margin of last page. 

A unique document, providing insight into the musician's thoughts on his craft and career

The questionnaire includes an interesting set of questions that touch race, class, faith, and WWII, all as they relate to musicianship. A few sample answers from Armstrong include: 

On distinguishing an amateur from a professional: "The amateur is when one first starts out and the professional is the one who has to really do the thing right." 

Advice to beginners: "First learn their instrument correct. After learning -- try to express themselves, while playing. And stay away from Be Bop." 

Whether World War II had an effect on his career: "No. I did of (?) playing trumpet for the soldiers and knocked em out."

PROVENANCE:

Swann Galleries, 14 September 1993, lot 229